Working conditions described as harsh

Staff at Camp-Est in Noumea describe their work environment as extremely challenging, likening it to being "between a hammer and an anvil," caught between a government hesitant to fund a new prison and a growing number of inmates who are more aggressive and involved in legal battles over detention conditions.

Infrastructure and staffing issues

Nicolas Mackenzie, a senior guard and local secretary of the FO Justice union, says the prison’s structure is outdated, with overcrowding and a lack of staff increasing the risk of collapse. He highlights the need for modernization and better resources to ensure safety.

Renovation and unsafe conditions

Staff from Camp-Est raised concerns about degraded working conditions during a mobilization in early October. Mackenzie explained that the juvenile section had to undergo renovations in September 2025, exposing staff to unsafe conditions like noise, dust, and tools, and forcing them to share workspaces with inmates.

Inmate incident and relocation

During the night of September 24 to 25, juvenile inmates escaped their cells, though no serious incidents occurred. After a meeting on September 29, the administration decided to move these inmates to a building under construction, but staff were not satisfied with its condition.

Health and safety concerns

FO Justice alerted the prevention doctor last year to hazardous areas in the juvenile section. A second visit by the doctor on October 14 will allow for the formalization of his report and recommendations regarding safety and working conditions.

Budget and new prison plans

Despite annual budgets for renovations, no new prison is being built in Noumea. While the former Attorney General had expressed hope for a new facility, recent statements from the Minister of Overseas Territories have cast doubt on this prospect.

Overcrowding and staff strain

Staff describe chronic overcrowding, repeated aggressions, and obsolete infrastructure. Mackenzie noted that the overcrowding rate is between 136 and 151% of the general staff capacity, with the detention center reaching 210%. Cells with seven inmates in 10 square meters have been reduced to three or four people.

New prison in Tahiti

A new prison is planned for Tahiti, but it will only accommodate juveniles with short sentences. Mackenzie expressed support for his colleagues in French Polynesia but emphasized the urgent need for a new facility in New Caledonia.

Riots and safety risks

Camp-Est was the center of riots on May 13, 2024, with staff managing to contain more than 600 inmates. Mackenzie says the risk of riots remains high due to the current conditions and tensions.

Staff engagement with officials

Staff have met with various officials, including local deputies and senators, and are awaiting a response from the president of the South Province. They hope to raise awareness in the mainland and push for quick decisions on a new prison.

Conditions in Koné

The detention center in Koné, opened in 2023, has a calmer environment with modern infrastructure and fewer incidents of aggression, demonstrating the benefits of updated facilities.

Lack of activities and mental health care

Due to budget constraints, educational and professional training activities are not regularly available in Noumea. This leads to inmates spending long hours in their cells, increasing tension. FO Justice calls for specific mental health units and a regional medical service.

Escalating aggression

Inmates are increasingly using new technologies and social networks, leading to more severe forms of aggression, from verbal insults to physical attacks and hostage situations.

Past hostage incident

On May 13, 2024, three staff members were taken hostage, with one seriously injured. The Raid was needed to resolve the situation, and the heat during that period worsened the risks for staff.

Staff shortages and appeals

An audit in November highlighted a severe lack of staff across all services. Despite ministerial visits and reports, no improvements have been made. In 2025, 449 appeals were filed by inmates, including requests for compensation and accommodations.

Poor housing and drug issues

In Noumea, 75% of the housing sectors are made of maritime containers. FO Justice argues that staff deserve to work in safe conditions, after repeated warnings. Drugs like cannabis and homemade weapons are common in the prison.

Unusual prison structure

Camp-Est’s flat layout, unlike the multi-floor structures in mainland prisons, makes it harder for guards to monitor each other. This adds to the urgency of building a facility that meets standard prison requirements.